Victoria's hub for health services and business
A gateway to the strategies, policies, programs and services delivered by the Department of Health & Human Services.
Victorian government portal for older people, with information about government and community services and programs.
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Addiction is a craving to use a substance or to repeat a behaviour...
Asking for help when you first suspect you have an alcohol or drug problem is important. If you think you have an addiction, speak to your local doctor or phone DirectLine...
Surveys provide information about drug use and the characteristics of people who use drugs in Victoria and Australia...
The size of a standard drink can vary according to the type of alcohol...
Amphetamines are psychostimulant drugs that speed up the workings of the brain...
Benzodiazepines (tranquillisers) are highly addictive and should only be used for certain conditions in a short-term or emergency situation...
Caffeine is a stimulant that acts on the brain and nervous system...
Cannabis has many harmful effects on health...
Cocaine is a highly addictive illegal stimulant that has serious side effects...
Ecstasy is an illegal stimulant and hallucinogenic drug that can cause stroke and heart attack...
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is an illegal drug that acts as a nervous system depressant. It is also called grievous bodily harm (GBH) or fantasy. GHB is highly addictive. It produces feelings of...
Hallucinogens target specific centres of the brain to alter its understanding of sensory input...
Heroin is a depressant of the central nervous system, which means it slows down brain function and particularly the control of breathing...
The drug ice, is a stimulant with a high risk of addiction if it used regularly...
Inhalants are chemical substances that give off fumes that can be breathed in to achieve a 'high'...
It is dangerous to take kava in combination with alcohol or other psychoactive drugs...
Prolonged misuse of steroids can cause liver damage and severe mood swings...
Synthetic drugs aim to mimic the effects of existing illicit drugs such as cannabis, cocaine and ecstasy...
Alcohol, medications, illegal drugs and some herbal remedies can all cause damage if an overdose is taken...
Most women take a drug of some kind during pregnancy, sometimes without realising the potential for harm...
Dual diagnosis means someone has both a mental illness and a substance use problem...
Many drugs, both prescription and illegal, can cause tooth damage...
It is important to create a safe environment at parties so that everyone can have fun. Staying safe means avoiding injury or assault, not hurting anyone else, and not ruining an event or...
Partying at schoolies week can be fun, but you need to be aware of the risks, which can include accidents, robbery, violence and sexual assault...
All children are eventually exposed to drugs ‒ prescription medication, alcohol and tobacco, and sometimes illegal drugs too ‒ or to messages about drugs...
Counsellors, doctors and other healthcare professionals can help if you have a problem with alcohol or drugs...
If you are worried about your alcohol or drug use or, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 for counselling, information and referral, or speak with your local doctor...
Medication treatments for heroin dependence include methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone...
Some people need to explore different treatment options for drug dependency before they find what works for them...
Talking with your doctor or healthcare professional is an important step in getting care for issues of drug or alcohol addiction or dependence...
How do I choose a service? How can I get help, make a complaint or get support?
Phone 1800 888 236 for confidential alcohol and drug counselling and referral in Victoria, for people of all ages and backgrounds.
From routine illnesses to more complex health problems, a GP can help with a huge range of health issues at all stages of your life. Learn more about the pros and cons of having a regular GP.
Provides immediate, expert health advice from a registered nurse. Call 1300 60 60 24